James Burris

James Joseph (Jim) Burris, 75, died September 17, 2011, of Legionnaires Disease at the Shawnee Medical Center.

Jim was born in Nevada, Missouri, June 19, 1936. He graduated from Silver Lake High School and served in the U. S. Army. He trained at Brooks Army Medical Center as an x-ray technician. He graduated from Johnson County Community College and attended Kansas University.

Before retirement, Jim was employed by Bethany Medical Center and Trinity Lutheran Hospital. He was a member of the Post 327 American Legion in Shawnee, where until recently he served as Commander. He also was a Shriner, Mason and member of the Eagles.

Jim was a country boy who moved to the city, but never lost his love of an active life in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and shared adventures as far away as Canada, Mexico and Alaska. He was devoted to his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. He will be greatly missed by friends and family who knew him for his hard work, sense of humor, determination, and generosity.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Velma, of the home; his children: Doug Burris and wife Julie of St.Louis, Julie Rathjen and husband Mike of Overland Park; grandchildren Sydney, Emily, Mia, Ashton and Lawson; brothers Don Burris of Birmingham, Alabama, Carl Burris of Port Orchard, Washington; and sister Susan Garton of Anchorage, Alaska; and many nephews and nieces, including, Dennis Gibson and Robin Goebel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Francis Burris, and his brother, Jack Burris.

The family suggests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 50 Crestwood Executive, Suite 401 St. Louis, Missouri 63126.

Visitation and Services

The family will receive friends and relatives from 6 to 8 p.m., Sunday, September 18, 2011, at the Amos Family Chapel of Shawnee. A Celebration of Jim's life will be 10 a.m., Monday September 19, 2011, at the chapel. A private family committal service will be held at a later date.